In 2020, the Connecticut Department of Transportation (DOT) plans to construct a modern, three-legged roundabout replacing the "T" intersection at the town lines of Branford, Guilford and North Branford (US Route 1 and CT Route 22).  The upgrade will improve safety and efficiency for vehicles and pedestrians, according to the DOT.

Branford First Selectman James B. Cosgrove noted that the town received a letter regarding the project from the DOT on May 12, 2017 and that news reports have appeared since; but that he was sharing the letter with local news outlets on June 9 in response to a belated request from the DOT to pass the release on to news media. The item has already been noted for the public record including Town Planner Harry Smith remarking on it during the correspondence portion of the June 1 Planning and Zoning Commission (PZC) meeting.

The press release describes plans to construct a modern roundabout and remove the spur connection between Routes 1 and 22, noting that, "...if required, access to nearby businesses and/or residences will be reconfigured to coincide with the new roadway alignment." The roundabout is anticipated to fit within "existing roadway limits," the press release also states.

Design plans for the roundabout are expected to be completed in August 2019, with a public informational meeting taking place once the preliminary design is completed.  Assuming project acceptance, funding availability and securing any required right-of-way and/or environmental permits, construction is planned to start in spring 2020.

In the 2017-2021 five -year CT DOT capital plan report, the project cost is listed as  $1.6 million. The project would be funded with 80 percent federal and 20 percent state funds.

In the May letter to Cosgrove, William W. Britnell, Principal Engineer of Highway Design noted, "It is the department's policy to keep the public informed and involved when such projects are undertaken. It is important that the community share their concerns with us to assist in the project's development...if you or any of your constituents have any questions, please contact me."

Britnell can be contacted at (860) 594-3274 or by emailing William.Britnell@ct.gov Reference State Project Number 0059-0164.